Interview with Vice Provost Hradsky on drop deadline, the Arch, testing center, and more
Vice Provost for the Student Experience Robert Hradsky sat down with The Poly to discuss the drop deadline, Arch, the testing center, and more.
Vice Provost for the Student Experience Robert Hradsky sat down with The Poly to discuss the drop deadline, Arch, the testing center, and more.
Car crash on 15th, no injuries reported
At approximately 8 pm Monday, a red car allegedly stolen drove recklessly through 15th Street, hitting parked cars in front of the Rensselaer Union.
At approximately 8 pm Monday, a red car allegedly stolen drove recklessly through 15th Street, hitting parked cars in front of the Rensselaer Union.
Schmidt announces slowdown in growth plans during Town Meeting
President Schmidt hosted his fifth town meeting where he discussed RPI’s bicentennial, enrollment, the state of higher education and more.
President Schmidt hosted his fifth town meeting where he discussed RPI’s bicentennial, enrollment, the state of higher education and more.
Women's Hockey
Engineers bring home gold from Big Green
Rensselaer’s Blackout game against Dartmouth saw them rise to a 3-1 victory in their Friday faceoff.
Men'S Hockey
Engineers lose blackout shootout vs Union
Rensselaer falls in a high scoring game against Union College, losing 3-6 on Friday night.
E–Board approves RUGP revision
The Executive Board approved the October 2024 revision of the Rensselaer Union Guidelines and Procedures, upon approval of signage policy by the Student Senate. Changes include a concrete Union signage policy, a clear, public link for new form interest, an increased reimbursement for gas, and various small items. Additionally, Google Developer Groups on Campus at RPI became Union Affiliated, and a few other clubs’ motions passed.
Senate pushes for sweeping changes to RPI’s sidewalks and crosswalks
A traffic report was presented by Dominick Celeste ’25 on needed civil improvements to the RPI campus, and a new committee was made to investigate the strangely small class size of the Class of ’28.
Class of 2028 elects its representatives
The Class of 2028 has elected its representatives. Alondra Correa Valderrain ’28 was elected class president and Lauren Antao ’28 was elected as class vice president.
The Class of 2028 has elected its representatives. Alondra Correa Valderrain ’28 was elected class president and Lauren Antao ’28 was elected as class vice president.
Thunder Mountain Curry returns to its roots, firing up new era
Once the pivotal decision to renovate Rathskeller this past summer, Thunder Mountain Curry has sparked up a new era full of opportunity, excitement, and good food. Owner Mike Gordon gives updates on Thunder Mountain Curry’s journey thus far and plans for the future.
Once the pivotal decision to renovate Rathskeller this past summer, Thunder Mountain Curry has sparked up a new era full of opportunity, excitement, and good food. Owner Mike Gordon gives updates on Thunder Mountain Curry’s journey thus far and plans for the future.
Women's Hockey
Orange you mad? Engineers take down Syracuse in overtime win
In a nail-biting game, Rensselaer broke a third period tie-up to win a 2-1 victory over Syracuse.
Men's Football
Engineers outrun Saints in crusade to victory
The Engineers came back in the second half of their game Saturday to beat St. Lawrence 34-10.
Dogpark rocks the Union
UPAC Concerts presents Dogpark, a local alternative indie band, this past Friday in the Union.
My Lady Jane: A satirical take on the “Nine Days’ Queen” and the Catholic-Protestant conflicts of 1500s England
Associate Features Editor Mary O’Brien ’28 explains why My Lady Jane is the perfect weekend binge with its retelling of Lady Jane Grey’s nine-day reign of England.
Is a walkable America even possible?
Associate Composing Editor Ryan Gibeau ’26 explains how changes to our zoning codes would help lead to a more livable country.
E-Board reports on Mueller Center smoke and success of CMVP Program
Reports were presented about the Mueller Center smoke and the great success of the Course Materials Value Pack program for students.
Senate amends bylaws to add inquiry powers, passes new election policy
The Student Senate amended its bylaws to allow for formal inquiries into areas concerning the Union membership or Union affairs. They also passed a new election policy to improve the creation of opportunities for Student Workers to poll sit and clarify how the technology used for elections should be used.
Photo Short Story
RPI celebrates 200 years with dazzling drone show
Rensselaer showcased an impressive drone light show, utilizing 750 drones to celebrate its bicentennial.
Women's Hockey
Engineers take Sacred’s Heart
After a heartbreaking loss in overtime the previous night, the Engineers rallied in convincing fashion, dominating Sacred Heart University on Saturday with a 4-0 blowout.
This or that: the beauty of choice
Associate News Editor Meher Randeria ’28 presents an opinion on why having choice is an amazing thing.
Associate News Editor Meher Randeria ’28 presents an opinion on why having choice is an amazing thing.
Engineers earn redemption against Holy Cross
The intense two-game weekend featured a third period heartbreaker on Friday and a 2-0 comeback on Saturday for the Engineers. Saturday’s game broke the team’s record for their single most attended game at 1,553 fans.
The intense two-game weekend featured a third period heartbreaker on Friday and a 2-0 comeback on Saturday for the Engineers. Saturday’s game broke the team’s record for their single most attended game at 1,553 fans.
RPI silent over new drop deadline
Despite numerous requests for an explanation, RPI has remained silent on why the drop deadline was moved up from being eight weeks into the semester to only two. The change was meant with almost universal disdain.
What is The Poly reading?
The members of The Polytechnic each list one book they find worthy of sharing amongst others.
Constants by Sarah Davachi: a passage of anguish, acceptance, and awareness
Canadian composer Sarah Davachi performed a solo concert of Constants, a track from her novel album The Head As Form’d in the Crier’s Choir at EMPAC this past Wednesday.
Canadian composer Sarah Davachi performed a solo concert of Constants, a track from her novel album The Head As Form’d in the Crier’s Choir at EMPAC this past Wednesday.
Trader Joe’s and fall: why it’s the perfect combo
Fall foods are the perfect way to celebrate a season, and Associate Photography Editor Annelise Eggen-McElmurry ’27 explores the seasonal options of Trader Joe’s.
ASA motion to change member dues fails
The African Student Association motion to reduce membership dues from $15 to $10 failed. The Medlife Movement became a Union-affiliated club and RPI Quadball, Alpha Phi Omega, and Chinese American Student Association received additional subsidies. A motion to keep the Union open for 24 hours was tabled for the second week in a row.
RPI tramples WPI to Transit Trophy triumph
The 117th Transit Trophy was carried off by Rensselaer in a blowout against WPI.
The 117th Transit Trophy was carried off by Rensselaer in a blowout against WPI.
Rensselaer Carnival celebrates Bicentennial: a heartfelt tribute to students past and present
As part of Rensselaer’s Bicentennial Celebration, a two-day carnival was held on Anderson Field, featuring showcases, games, and a Ferris Wheel.
As part of Rensselaer’s Bicentennial Celebration, a two-day carnival was held on Anderson Field, featuring showcases, games, and a Ferris Wheel.
Union receives lighting subsidy, Jordan Krishnayah appointed
The Student Union building acquired a subsidy for new outdoor lighting. Moreover, Jordan Krishnayah ’28 was confirmed as the new chair of the Student Government Communications Committee.
Senate reinstates Title IX and Bystander Intervention Training Policy for RPI club leaders
In its first meeting of the semester, the Student Senate heard a motion to reinstate Title IX and Bystander Intervention Training for all RPI Student Union-affiliated clubs and organizations leaders, putting the Union back in accordance with New York State law. The Senate also confirmed nominations for three vacant positions.
Breaking the shackles of the prisoner’s dilemma
News Editor Alexander Orr ’25 contemplates the benefits of giving more than receiving.
News Editor Alexander Orr ’25 contemplates the benefits of giving more than receiving.
Engineers leave Dolphins out to dry
RPI’s aggressive offense led them to a 3-0 win over the University of Mount Saint Vincent, with goals scored by forwards Izzy Gelzhiser and Camilla Dominguez and midfielder Brooke Miller.
RPI’s aggressive offense led them to a 3-0 win over the University of Mount Saint Vincent, with goals scored by forwards Izzy Gelzhiser and Camilla Dominguez and midfielder Brooke Miller.
Former Grand Marshal investigated & Duties of office Clarified
In a press release, the Elections Commission announces the conclusion of its investigation into a former Grand Marshal concerning his public endorsement and attempted interference in the GM Week 2024 election.
In a press release, the Elections Commission announces the conclusion of its investigation into a former Grand Marshal concerning his public endorsement and attempted interference in the GM Week 2024 election.
E-Board overwhelming rejects motion to place Rensselaer Voices for Palestine on probation
The Executive Board on Thursday overwhelmingly rejected a motion to place Rensselaer Voices for Palestine on probation. RMA and UPAC came for reallocation requests and Ultimate Frisbee asked for a subsidy for a tournament, which all passed. Science Ambassador’s Union Recognition got tabled indefinitely. Four E-Board members were confirmed for chairperson positions.
Conflict among Senators puts Executive Board operations in jeopardy
The Student Senate approved only four members of the Executive Board out of a planned sixteen after Ria Massoni ’24G called for more transparent operations within student government. The remaining members still await confirmation before the end of the semester if the E-Board is to remain functional this summer.
For the trip back home
Features Editor Danlong Zhang ’27 summarizes and recommends his favorite books and movies for a long car or plane ride.
Engineers remain on top after split with Yellowjackets
No. 1 Rensselaer split their doubleheader against No. 2 Rochester this Saturday, winning 6-4 before losing 4-2. They still hold the top spot in the Liberty League.
No. 1 Rensselaer split their doubleheader against No. 2 Rochester this Saturday, winning 6-4 before losing 4-2. They still hold the top spot in the Liberty League.
RPI Players’ Striking Performance of The Lightning Thief
RPI Players’ performed the musical The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical at the Schacht Fine Arts Center at Russell Sage College from April 5-13th.
RPI Players’ performed the musical The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical at the Schacht Fine Arts Center at Russell Sage College from April 5-13th.
55th Student Senate starts new term with uncertainty
The 55th Student Senate meets for the first time under Grand Marshal Vivian Rost-Nasshan '26. The Elections Commission reveals an ongoing investigation.
The 55th Student Senate meets for the first time under Grand Marshal Vivian Rost-Nasshan '26. The Elections Commission reveals an ongoing investigation.
On-Campus Event
Grand opening of the IBM Quantum System One at Rensselaer
This year, Rensselaer has become the first university to hold an IBM Quantum System One. On April 5th, the ribbon cutting ceremony was held for the new system, which is located in the Voorhees Computing Center. After the official ceremony, attendees were able to go on tours led by the members of the Quantum Computing Club. The night before the unveiling ceremony, CBS News Correspondent David Pogue arrived at EMPAC to deliver a piece on the quick and frightening progress of AI.
GM Week 2024
Vivian Rost-Nasshan elected Grand Marshal in runoff election
Vivian Rost-Nasshan ’26 has been elected Grand Marshal, beating Ria Massoni ’25G in a historic runoff election.
Prioritize people, not politics
Former Grand Marshal Ben Viner ’24 expresses his thoughts on the Student Senate and their work throughout his term.
Former Grand Marshal Ben Viner ’24 expresses his thoughts on the Student Senate and their work throughout his term.
E-Board denounces actions of Dr. Charlie Potts over Bennett hiring, plans to shut down Rathskeller over summer for renovations
The Executive Board gave a formal denouncement to the actions of the Union’s administrative staff regarding the unconstitutional hiring of Cait Bennett as an administrative specialist. Society of Plastics Engineers approved for club affiliation, RPI Club Field Hockey achieves Union recognition, and the Director of the Union Dr. Charlie Potts presents the Union’s upcoming construction and renovation projects to the Executive Board. Additionally, the E-Board approves the hiring of William Weinert for the position of Assistant Director of Outdoor Programs.
The Executive Board gave a formal denouncement to the actions of the Union’s administrative staff regarding the unconstitutional hiring of Cait Bennett as an administrative specialist. Society of Plastics Engineers approved for club affiliation, RPI Club Field Hockey achieves Union recognition, and the Director of the Union Dr. Charlie Potts presents the Union’s upcoming construction and renovation projects to the Executive Board. Additionally, the E-Board approves the hiring of William Weinert for the position of Assistant Director of Outdoor Programs.
Elections Commission addresses GM Week election
After the first tie for Grand Marshal in GM Week history, the Elections Commission is eager to improve the voting process. Also, controversy surrounding the endorsement of GM candidate Vivian Rost-Nasshan ’26 by current Grand Marshal Ben Viner ’24 was discussed.
Learning about Japanese media with Kono Oto Tomare!: Sounds of Life
Copy Coordinator Anisha Biswas ’27 discusses watching a show called Kono Oto Tomare!: Sounds of Life by Platinum Vision and how watching Japanese media lead to further interest in a different aspect of Japanese culture.
Massoni, Rost-Nasshan take the stage for Grand Marshal runoff
As a result of the recent historic tie for Grand Marshal, candidates Ria Massoni ’24, ’25G and Vivian Rost-Nasshan ’26 took the stage again for a second debate. The questioning built upon statements made in the previous debate and included more candidate-specific questions. The debate was moderated once again by Elections Commission Chairperson Timothy Miles ’24.
As a result of the recent historic tie for Grand Marshal, candidates Ria Massoni ’24, ’25G and Vivian Rost-Nasshan ’26 took the stage again for a second debate. The questioning built upon statements made in the previous debate and included more candidate-specific questions. The debate was moderated once again by Elections Commission Chairperson Timothy Miles ’24.
Second debate for GM to be held on April 1, runoff election set for April 3
The Elections Commission has announced a second debate for Monday, April 1 between Grand Marshal candidates Ria Massoni ’24, ’25G and Vivian Rost-Nasshan ’26. The Commission has also set Wednesday, April 3 for the runoff election.
Ria Massoni endorsed for GM by Active Minds, Sole Survivors, Disabled Students at RPI DREAM, Autism at Rensselaer, and Comma
Ria Massoni ’24, ’25G has been endorsed for Grand Marshal by Active Minds, Sole Survivors, Disabled Students at RPI DREAM, Autism at Rensselaer, and Comma.
GM Week 2024
A week of fun: GM Week 2024
Grand Marshal Week 2024 was full of fun campus-wide events and activities. This year’s festivities included the Mxmtoon concert, Provost Picnic, and Formal.
Executive Board
Union hires Cait Bennett ’23G without Executive Board approval
Previous Grand Marshal Cait Bennett ’23G was hired as an Administrative Specialist for the Rensselaer Union. However, she was hired under the discretion of the Director of the Union Dr. Charlie Potts without the knowledge and approval of the Union Executive Board. As per the Union Constitution, the E-Board “shall approve the hiring and continuance of all administrative personnel of the Union.”
Engineers beat down Brewers
The Engineers won against the Brewers of Vassar College in an 18-10 game.
The Engineers won against the Brewers of Vassar College in an 18-10 game.
GM Week preliminary election results: Philipps, Khoury elected PU, UP, runoff election to be held for GM
Catherine Philipps ’24, ’25G has been elected President of the Union. Paul Khoury ’26 has elected as Undergraduate President. A runoff election between Ria Massoni ’24, ’25G and Vivian Rost-Nasshan ’26 will be held to elect the Grand Marshal.
Catherine Philipps ’24, ’25G has been elected President of the Union. Paul Khoury ’26 has elected as Undergraduate President. A runoff election between Ria Massoni ’24, ’25G and Vivian Rost-Nasshan ’26 will be held to elect the Grand Marshal.
Candidates face off in GM Week 2024 debates
Five candidates took the stage for the Grand Marshal Week debate moderated by Elections Committee Chairperson Timothy Miles ’24. The debate offered one last chance for the candidates to present themselves to the student body and share their opinions on various topics and issues.
Five candidates took the stage for the Grand Marshal Week debate moderated by Elections Committee Chairperson Timothy Miles ’24. The debate offered one last chance for the candidates to present themselves to the student body and share their opinions on various topics and issues.
Panhellenic Council endorses Rost-Nasshan, Philipps for GM, PU
The Panhellenic Council endorses Vivian Rost-Nasshan ’26 and Catherine Philipps ’24, ’25G for Grand Marshal and President of the Union.
Current Grand Marshal Ben Viner endorses Vivian Rost-Nasshan for GM
Current Grand Marshal Ben Viner ’24 endorses Academic Affairs Committee Chairperson and Independent Senator Vivian Rost-Nasshan ’26 for GM.
Endorsement
Vivian Rost-Nasshan for Grand Marshal
The Polytechnic endorses Vivian Rost-Nasshan ’26 for Grand Marshal. Rost-Nasshan’s goals to advocate for RPI students through accessibility plans, increasing student projects and improving the Student Senate’s relationships with the student body paves the way for a bright, cohesive future within the Student Senate in the coming year.
Endorsement
Catherine Philipps for President of the Union
The Polytechnic endorses the current-serving President of the Union, Cat Philipps ’24, ’25G. Philipps has put years into student government, already helping numerous clubs gain footing on Rensselaer campus. Within the Executive Board and student government as a whole, she wants to improve communication and accessibility, sharing the work they do with the student body.
Catherine Philipps candidate profile
President of the Union candidate Catherine Philipps ’24, ’25G answers questions about her candidacy.
Paul Khoury candidate profile
Undergraduate President candidate Paul Khoury ’26 answers questions about his candidacy.
Joseph Bowers candidate profile
President of the Union candidate Joseph Bowers ’25 answers questions about his candidacy.
Ria Massoni candidate profile
Grand Marshal candidate Ria Massoni ’24, ’25G answers questions about her candidacy.
Vivian Rost-Nasshan candidate profile
Grand Marshal candidate Vivian Rost-Nasshan ’26 answers questions about her candidacy.
Art Show of “Opulence”
Black Student Association held their annual art show, where they had several of their member’s artwork on display for guests to spectate.
Black Student Association held their annual art show, where they had several of their member’s artwork on display for guests to spectate.
President Schmidt on RPI at 200 and the Institute’s future
An interview with President Schmidt on his goals for the year, RPI at 200, campus safety, mental health, the Arch and more.
An interview with President Schmidt on his goals for the year, RPI at 200, campus safety, mental health, the Arch and more.
